Relationships are a huge part of our social life. Whether it’s platonic, romantic or friendly, these relationships form the social support network that is crucial for our health. Different types of relationships serve different purposes, and some may overlap. However, there are specific benefits to healthy, committed relationships that are based on mutually beneficial interactions.
When a person is in a relationship, they maintain a meaningful emotional connection with each other that creates a sense of belonging and emotional fulfillment. They also share the ups and downs of life together. When one partner is feeling down, the other can provide an ear and offer words of support. This emotional support allows them to achieve more in their personal and professional lives, which can help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
In a healthy relationship, both partners respect each other’s independence. They don’t try to control or manipulate their partner. They communicate openly about everything, from their favorite movies and restaurants to their sexual fantasies. They take time to talk daily in a setting free from distractions, such as during a walk or over dinner. This improves their emotional intimacy and increases the friendship of the relationship.
They make time for each other to do activities they both enjoy, such as taking a class or playing a sport. They also spend quality time together, such as spending a day at the beach or having a picnic in the park. They also schedule tech-free time to spend with each other, like during a date night or during a movie marathon.